Negligence Car Accidents
Negligent driving, a leading cause of car accidents in Maryland, profoundly impacts everyone on the road. Under Maryland law, drivers must exercise reasonable care when operating a vehicle. However, reckless actions like speeding, distracted driving, and disregarding traffic laws frequently lead to dangerous collisions. These negligent behaviors in Prince George's County contribute to many serious accidents, leaving victims with extensive medical expenses, vehicle damage, and lost wages, all because of someone else's irresponsibility behind the wheel.
At Foran & Foran, P.A., we are committed to holding negligent drivers accountable under Maryland's contributory negligence laws, where proving fault is critical to recovering compensation. Whether your injuries were caused by a lane departure accident, hit-and-run, or a distracted driving crash, our experienced attorneys will investigate the circumstances and build a solid case to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn how we can help you through your recovery, protect your rights, and effectively pursue a claim against the party responsible for your injuries.
What Constitutes Negligence in a Maryland Car Accident Case?Negligence occurs when a driver fails to exercise the reasonable care required to prevent harm to others on the road. Some common forms of driver negligence in Prince George's County include:
- Speeding. Drivers who exceed the speed limit are more likely to lose control of their vehicle and cause a crash.
- Distracted driving. Texting, talking on the phone, and using in-car technology can divert a driver's attention, leading to accidents.
- Failing to yield. Many accidents happen when drivers do not yield to other vehicles or pedestrians, particularly at intersections.
- Impaired driving. Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol are a significant threat to road safety and are more likely to make dangerous errors.
- Tailgating. Following too closely behind another vehicle can lead to rear-end collisions when the front driver brakes suddenly.
Negligence car accidents can range from minor fender-benders to severe, life-threatening collisions. Regardless of the type of crash, proving that the other driver acted negligently is key to securing compensation for your injuries.
Gathering Evidence to Prove NegligenceTo establish negligence in a car accident case, your attorney must gather substantial evidence to prove that the other driver's actions directly caused the crash. Common types of evidence include:
- Police report. After a car accident, the police will often document the scene and provide a detailed account of what occurred. This report can be crucial evidence to prove the other driver's fault.
- Witness statements. Eyewitnesses to the accident can provide valuable testimony about the events leading up to the crash.
- Traffic camera footage. In some cases, nearby traffic cameras or surveillance systems may capture the accident as it happens, providing critical visual evidence.
- Accident reconstruction experts. In more complex cases, accident reconstruction experts can help determine how the accident occurred and whether the other driver acted negligently.
An experienced Prince George's County negligence car accident lawyer can help you gather and present this evidence to strengthen your case and improve your chances of securing compensation.
Types of Injuries in Negligence Car AccidentsVictims of negligent car accidents often face severe, life-changing injuries that require extensive medical care. Common injuries include:
- Whiplash and neck injuries. Rear-end collisions, often caused by distracted or tailgating drivers, can lead to neck strain and soft tissue injuries.
- Broken bones. High-speed crashes often result in fractures or broken bones, requiring surgery and rehabilitation.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Concussions and brain injuries can result from head trauma in a car accident and may have long-lasting effects on a victim's cognitive abilities.
- Spinal cord injuries. Damage to the spinal cord can lead to paralysis, loss of motor function, and permanent disability.
- Internal injuries. The force of a collision can cause internal bleeding and organ damage, which may require emergency medical treatment.
Zero Deaths Maryland reported 492 fatalities in 2023, with many caused by negligent driving. These accidents not only lead to deaths but also leave victims and their families struggling with physical pain and financial loss.
Contact an Experienced Prince George's Car Accident Lawyer for Help With Your Accident CaseIf you’ve been injured in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you deserve skilled legal representation to pursue the compensation you’re entitled to. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our experienced Prince George's car accident lawyers have a proven track record of holding negligent drivers accountable. We will aggressively fight for your rights, whether through settlement negotiations or in court. Call us today at 301-441-2022 for a free consultation with a lawyer who will guide you through every step of your case. We proudly represent clients in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, La Plata, Silver Spring, Rockville, and the surrounding areas.